Student Testimonials Vol. 16

Dancing My Way to Success

Naditha Marie Manubag

Attaining this feat was not my sole effort. It was a result of our efforts: myself, my mom, and Kumon.

Subject/s:

Math

Started:

9 years old (Grade 3)

I encountered different challenges.

I started my Kumon journey in April 2007 and recently finished the Math Program in July 2010. We knew Kumon through my mother's friend. She told us about Kumon after knowing that I join math contests in our school. After hearing about this idea, my mom and I immediately went to the nearest Kumon Center in our area and without hesitation, I enrolled.

After the Diagnostic Test, my mother and I were told that I needed to start in Level 2A (addition). I felt sad because I was a Grade 3 student then and it was much lower than my school grade. But my Instructor and my mom told me not to lose hope because if I just answer my worksheets everyday, I could reach Level C (multiplication) in three months. I became excited to start my Kumon journey. The next day was my first day in Kumon. I had to make adjustments at first but afterwards, I became more comfortable and it was then easier to socialize with the people in the Center. I met new friends, I felt closer to my Kumon Instructor and I did my Kumon worksheets with fun. To my surprise, I have reached Level C in just a month and half. I then received an award in August 2007 for studying 6 months beyond my school grade level, and at that time, I felt extremely honored to be among the recipients of the award. I became more encouraged to double my efforts in answering my worksheets. After a long journey, I reached Level J (advanced factorization and quadratic equations) and this was when I received a medal for studying 3 years advanced materials. I was so overwhelmed and so inspired by the other Kumon Completers at that time. I vowed to myself that I will work harder in order to finish the program faster.

When I reached Level L (calculus), I encountered different challenges. At that time, I was in Grade 5 and it was difficult for me to answer equations meant for a first year college student! The next problem that I encountered was about my schedule. I needed to balance my Kumon schedule, my school activities, and the time I need for dance practices for incoming dance sports competitions. Yes, dancing is my one great love. Whenever I am on the dance floor, I feel a sense of freedom. I am free! I can dance all my way to success. Whenever I am clad in a shiny and glamorous outfit, I am not just Nadz; I am Naditha, the dancing princess who can’t wait to soar higher. But because of the hectic schedule, giving up my two passions – dancing and Kumon – came to my mind. I may have to take off my dancing shoes or leave my worksheets unanswered. Then, I realized, why quit Kumon when it was Kumon that gave me confidence and determination? Why quit something that has transformed me to be a young lady who can prove to other people what I can do? I told myself, Naditha, you have to prioritize! I know I can juggle two or more activities, but other interests can wait for me to succeed in another.

Even when time was not on my side, I finally decided to pursue Kumon. Not just to continue my worksheets, but to finish the program! Thankfully, my Kumon Instructor supported me in my Kumon worksheets and advised me on how I could balance my schedule. From then on, my problems lessened and I felt more comfortable in my Kumon journey. My Kumon Instructor and all my Kumon teachers guided me throughout the journey and fortunately, July 2010, I completed the Kumon Math Program. I was very happy and proud for having completed the program. It was a great honor for me because finally, I have reached my goal.

The benefits of Kumon became evident when I was often chosen to represent my school in different math contests. Fortunately, I won in those contests. But more than winning numerous math competitions, I owe Kumon so much more for it made me love math. And through Kumon, I became more confident and independent. Without Kumon, I wouldn't be here and I wouldn't be able to achieve what I have achieved so far.

My Kumon journey is not all about me. I owe my Kumon journey to this one lady who supported me all the way and sacrificed all that she can so that I could have quality education, enriching activities, and a fun-filled childhood, my mom. She is my inspiration and she is the reason why I became successful and why I reached my goals. For me, she is the real Completer because she completes me. I feel incomplete without her or whenever she isn't beside me. We are very lucky to have our parents and our family who always support us in everything we do. Let us thank our parents for we owe them everything we have and I know that they'll be very happy.

Soon, I will be wearing my dancing shoes again. This second time around, the audience will be captivated with a more confident and fulfilled dance floor princess, dancing to every beat – jazz, tango, or salsa. But what is more important is that you will see a better Naditha – determined, patient, and persevering. A new Naditha ready to face the music of life – challenges, heartbreak, and even failure. And this is all because of Kumon.